Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/exploring-connections-between-infant-toddler-brain-development-and-emotions/5026457/
While early childhood educators have long advocated for and demonstrated the importance of loving care with young children, research shows us that this loving and tender care is also a crucial aspect of early brain development (Hassinger-Das & Hirsh-Pasek, 2017; Immordino-Yang, 2016). This is now understood from neuroscientific research, which shows the interrelated nature of emotions and cognition. The connection between brain development and emotions explains the importance of focusing on how children feel, what emotional connections they make during their learning experiences, and how they translate that experience into a personal narrative (Immordino-Yang, 2016). Supporting the emotional development of infants and toddlers is a vital responsibility of educators and can only be done by truly understanding this aspect of development.
Understanding Emotions
At birth, babies have an expectation that adults will be available to meet their needs (Shonkoff & Phillips, 2000). If a baby’s need for protection and comfort are met, their brains experience pleasure and delight. These early interactions stimulate the brain, motivating the baby to relate to those who care for them with confidence and ease. If a baby’s needs are not met, their confidence with their caregiver and their understanding of their emotions may ...